The Western Alligator Lizard is a fascinating reptile found along the western coast of North America. It is a member of the Anguidae family. These lizards are known for their long bodies, short legs, and tough, scaly appearance. They look somewhat like small alligators, which is how they got their name. This article will give you a full overview of their appearance, habitat, behavior, diet, reproduction, and more.
What Is a Western Alligator Lizard?
The Western Alligator Lizard is a medium-sized lizard found in the wild in California, Oregon, Washington, and parts of British Columbia. It belongs to the species Elgaria multicarinata.
There are several subspecies of this lizard, but the most common one is the Southern Alligator Lizard (Elgaria multicarinata multicarinata). These lizards are not dangerous and are often seen in gardens, forests, and even near homes.
Physical Appearance
Western Alligator Lizards have a distinct and armored look. Their bodies are long and slender. Their skin is covered in rough scales, giving them a rugged appearance.
Size
- Adults usually grow between 7 to 16 inches (18 to 41 cm) in total length.
- Their tails can make up more than half of their total body length.
Color
- Their body color ranges from brown to gray to olive-green.
- They often have dark bands or patterns across their backs and tails.
- Their bellies are usually lighter, sometimes yellowish or cream-colored.
Tail
- The tail is very important for defense.
- If attacked, the lizard can drop its tail to escape.
- The tail grows back, but it is usually shorter and less colorful than the original.
Habitat and Distribution
Western Alligator Lizards live in a wide range of habitats. They are highly adaptable and can survive in many types of environments.
Where They Live
- Coastal areas
- Mountain regions
- Grasslands
- Woodlands
- Urban gardens and parks
Geographic Range
They are commonly found in:
- California (especially Southern California)
- Oregon
- Washington
- Parts of British Columbia, Canada
- Some areas of northern Baja California, Mexico
Behavior
Western Alligator Lizards are secretive and shy. They are not aggressive and prefer to hide rather than fight.
Activity Patterns
- They are diurnal, meaning they are active during the day.
- In hot climates, they may become crepuscular, meaning active at dawn and dusk.
- They spend much of their time hiding under logs, rocks, or in leaf litter.
Climbing Skills
These lizards are excellent climbers. They can climb bushes, trees, and fences in search of food or shelter.
Defense Mechanisms
- When threatened, they may bite or try to escape quickly.
- Dropping the tail is a common escape strategy.
- They can make hissing sounds to scare predators.
Diet and Feeding
Western Alligator Lizards are carnivores. They feed on a variety of small animals and insects.
What They Eat
- Insects (beetles, ants, grasshoppers, crickets)
- Spiders
- Slugs and snails
- Earthworms
- Small lizards
- Occasionally, they may eat young rodents or baby birds
They help control insect populations, which makes them beneficial for gardens and crops.
How They Hunt
- They use sharp vision and a good sense of smell to find prey.
- They may wait quietly and ambush small animals.
- Their strong jaws help them catch and crush prey.
Reproduction
Western Alligator Lizards are oviparous, meaning they lay eggs.
Mating Season
- Mating usually happens in spring, between March and May.
- Males become more active and may fight other males to win a female.
Egg Laying
- Females lay 5 to 20 eggs in late spring or early summer.
- Eggs are laid in moist, hidden spots, like under logs or rocks.
- The mother may guard the eggs, which is unusual for lizards.
Hatching
- Eggs hatch in late summer, around July to September.
- Hatchlings are about 3 to 4 inches long and are independent from birth.
Growth and Lifespan
Western Alligator Lizards grow slowly and may take 2 to 3 years to reach full size.
Lifespan in the Wild
- In the wild, they may live up to 10 years.
- In captivity, with proper care, they can live up to 15 years or more.
Predators and Threats
These lizards have many natural predators, especially when they are young.
Common Predators
- Birds (hawks, crows, jays)
- Snakes
- Cats and dogs
- Larger lizards
- Humans, mainly due to habitat destruction
Threats to Survival
- Habitat loss due to housing and urban development
- Pesticides that poison their food sources
- Wildfires and climate change
Still, they are considered a species of Least Concern by conservation groups.
Western Alligator Lizards as Pets
Some people choose to keep Western Alligator Lizards as pets, but they require special care.
Housing
- They need a secure terrarium with plenty of hiding spots.
- The terrarium should have a heat source and UVB lighting.
Diet in Captivity
- Feed them a variety of insects, such as crickets and mealworms.
- Dust their food with calcium powder to prevent bone disease.
Handling Tips
- These lizards can become tame with gentle handling.
- Avoid grabbing them by the tail, as they might drop it.
- Always wash your hands before and after handling reptiles.
Interesting Facts
- Western Alligator Lizards can regrow their tails multiple times.
- They have movable eyelids, unlike some other lizards.
- During mating season, males may bite the neck of the female and hold on for hours.
- They help control pests naturally in gardens and backyards.
How to Identify Them in the Wild
If you see a lizard in the western U.S. and wonder if it’s a Western Alligator Lizard, look for these traits:
- Long body with a long tail
- Rough, overlapping scales
- Striped or banded pattern on the back
- Short legs and long toes
- Found in bushy, rocky, or wooded areas
Differences from Other Lizards
Western Alligator Lizards are often confused with skinks or fence lizards, but there are differences.
Western Fence Lizard vs. Alligator Lizard
- Fence lizards are shorter and have rougher, spiny scales.
- Alligator lizards are longer with smooth but armored scales.
Skinks vs. Alligator Lizards
- Skinks are usually shiny and have smooth scales.
- Alligator lizards look duller and more armored.
Tips for Observing Them in Nature
- Be quiet and slow when walking through forests or grasslands.
- Look under rocks, logs, or fallen branches.
- Use a field guide or take a photo to identify the lizard.
- Never disturb their habitat or try to catch them unless you’re trained.
Conservation Tips
Even though Western Alligator Lizards are not endangered, we should still protect them.
How You Can Help
- Avoid using pesticides and chemicals in your garden.
- Keep your cats indoors, as they kill many lizards.
- Plant native plants to create good hiding spots for wildlife.
- Educate others about the importance of reptiles in the ecosystem.
Conclusion
The Western Alligator Lizard is a unique and useful reptile. It plays an important role in the food chain by controlling insect populations. With its rough appearance, long body, and interesting behavior, it is a great animal to observe and learn about. Whether you see one in the wild or keep one as a pet, always treat these creatures with respect and care.
By learning more about the Western Alligator Lizard, we can help protect its habitat and ensure it continues to thrive for years to come.
Related topics
